Action Learning For Complex Problems

Welcome to Reaching Minds: Thoughts for Your Life Journey.

In today’s episode, we explore the discipline and philosophy of Action Learning Questions - what they are, why they matter, and how this approach helps individuals and organisations navigate challenges that don’t have straightforward answers.

Action learning was originally shaped by Reg Revans and grew out of scientific inquiry, experimentation, and a willingness to work from a place of “not knowing”. Today, the methodology remains highly relevant. We live in a world saturated with quick fixes and instant expertise, yet many of the issues leaders face are not puzzles with predefined solutions. They are complex, multi-layered problems influenced by social, technical, economic and cultural realities.

To help us unpack this, I’m joined by Dr Richard Hale, co-founder of Know Will Do Action Learning Network and creator of the Action Learning Question approach. Richard has spent more than 25 years developing and implementing this methodology for governments, global organisations, and business schools. He has published widely in the fields of learning relationships, coaching, mentoring and organisational development, and brings a rich historical and practical perspective to this conversation.

Together, we look at:

• Why action learning is essential for tackling today’s intractable problems

• The difference between puzzles and problems

• The courage required to say “I don’t know” in professional settings

• The value of multiple truths and diverse perspectives

• The role of knowledge mapping (sky, ground, underground)

• How organisations such as the Civil Service have used Action Learning Questions to drive real change

• The personal capabilities people develop through this work, including deeper listening, reflective practice and working constructively with uncertainty

• Why sponsorship and alignment with real business challenges are vital for success

Richard also shares the evolution of the Postgraduate Certificate in Action Learning Facilitation, a unique qualification accredited through York St John University, and the importance of creating facilitators who can mobilise, catalyse and sustain learning across organisational systems.

This is a rich, reflective and practical conversation for anyone working in leadership, coaching, development, systems change or organisational transformation.